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Servant, The

Theatrical Release Date:  TBC
Home Ent. Release Date:  06 Jan 2008
Cert:  

Synopsis:

Adapted from Robin Maugham’s short story, The Servant marked the first of three celebrated collaborations between Joseph Losey and Harold Pinter. Like Accident and The Go-Between it offers a savage indictment of the English class system, and its waning hold over all aspects of the working and cultural life of Britain. Experienced manservant Barrett (a superbly sinister Dirk Bogarde) starts working for foppish aristocrat Tony (James Fox, Performance) in his smart new townhouse. Much to the chagrin of Tony’s girlfriend (Wendy Craig), Barrett slowly insinuates himself in the house and manipulates his master by slyly rearranging the décor. The arrival of Barrett’s alluring and sexually permissive 'sister' (Sarah Miles) fatally severs the class barriers and the boundaries between master and servant, as Tony succumbs to the will of his stronger adversary. Brilliantly playing out this struggle for power and dominance, this intelligent and controversial drama is notable for its ambitious technique and its willingness to engage with issues never before seen in British cinema.

Directed By:

  • Joseph Losey

Starring:

  • Dirk Bogarde
  • Sarah Miles

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